By Mana Faye
As a member of NYABJ, enjoying early screenings of movies is one of the perks. So, when I caught wind of the opportunity to see Bob Marley: One Love, I couldn't resist. Despite not being from his era, thanks to my parents, I've always had a special affection for Bob Marley's music and powerful message. As an avid movie lover and writer, I knew I had to attend.
The message of love and unity is profoundly needed in our current times, and that's precisely what the Bob Marley: One Love film delivered to me as a viewer. Centering around the life of Jamaican singer-songwriter Bob Marley, the film portrays his journey as he triumphs over adversity to become the world's most renowned reggae musician.
Instead of offering a broad overview, the movie focuses on a specific period of his life, a format increasingly common in biopics, allowing for deeper exploration rather than a superficial retelling. Starring British actors Kingsley Ben-Adir of Peaky Blinders as Bob and The Marvels' Lashana Lynch as his wife Rita, the film captivates with Ben-Adir's charismatic portrayal of Marley, holding my attention throughout. Accompanied by the backdrop of beloved music classics, the film appeals to traditional fans and those less familiar with the genre.
Despite its warm and inviting cinematography, the film starkly contrasts with the tumultuous setting of Marley's life, beginning when he is 31 years old amidst a war-torn Jamaica grappling with post-colonial chaos. Marley becomes a victim of this violence, losing his songwriter and witnessing the injury of Rita and other members of his group in an attempted assassination. Yet, the narrative swiftly transitions to Marley's global rise to prominence, starting with the release of his album Exodus in London.
The film explores themes such as family dynamics, including the complex relationship between Marley and Rita, the influence of religion and Rastafarian ideals on his character and actions, and his internal struggles with politics, deeply rooted in his divided homeland.
Bob Marley: One Love skillfully dissects the idol, delving into the intricate complexities that shaped his life. It reveals how his music, faith, and community molded the man he became and how his music resonated with and inspired the world.
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